Septic Systems in Crittenden County, AR

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 48,163 ~33.6% on septic ~6,473 septic homes Poorly drained soil

Septic pumping in Crittenden County, Arkansas costs $200-$400 (avg $300). A new septic system installation costs $4,550-$9,100. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 6,473 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Crittenden County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$200$300$400
Routine Inspection$200$250$350
Real Estate Inspection$300$450$650
Minor Repair$550$800$4,000
Conventional Installation$4,550$6,500$9,100
Aerobic System Installation$8,500$12,150$17,000
Drainfield Replacement$4,550$6,500$9,100
Perc Test$650$950$1,350

Cost estimates based on regional market data for Crittenden County, Arkansas. Actual costs depend on system type, site conditions, and provider.

Soil & Septic Suitability in Crittenden County

Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Hydrologic Group
D
Unique Soil Types
20

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Sharkey 315 Poorly drained D
Tunica 268 Poorly drained D
Bowdre 260 Somewhat poorly drained C/D
Robinsonville 190 Well drained A
Dundee 189 Somewhat poorly drained C

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

USDA NRCS rates soil suitability for septic absorption fields across this county:

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited0%
Very Limited100%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Crittenden County

Monitoring Wells
53
Avg Depth to Water
27.8 ft
Median Depth
27.2 ft
Shallowest Recorded
4.5 ft

Water table depths in this county are generally favorable for conventional septic systems.

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 579 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Crittenden County

State Regulatory Body
Arkansas Department of Health/Environment
Inspection Required for Home Sale
No / Varies
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
No
Advanced Treatment Required
No

Contact county health department for specific requirements.

Contact the Crittenden County health department for current permit requirements, fees, and approved system types.

Septic System FAQ for Crittenden County

How much does septic pumping cost in Crittenden County?
Septic pumping in Crittenden County, Arkansas typically costs between $200 and $400, with an average of $300. Costs vary by tank size (1,000-1,500 gallons is typical), ease of access, distance from the pumping company, and how full the tank is. Most homeowners should pump their tank every 3-5 years.
How much does a new septic system cost in Crittenden County?
A conventional septic system installation in Crittenden County typically costs $4,550-$9,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $8,500-$17,000. Given the predominantly poorly drained soils in this area, some sites may require alternative system types. Costs include the tank, drainfield, permits, and labor.
Do I need a permit for a septic system in Crittenden County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Arkansas require a permit before installing, repairing, or replacing a septic system. The permit process typically involves a soil evaluation or percolation test, system design by a licensed professional, application to the county health department, and one or more inspections during installation. Contact the Crittenden County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Crittenden County and how do they affect septic systems?
Crittenden County has predominantly Sharkey, Tunica, Bowdre soils. The dominant drainage class is Poorly drained with hydrologic group D. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 0% as "Somewhat Limited", and 100% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Crittenden County?
The EPA recommends pumping your septic tank every 3-5 years for a typical household. The exact frequency depends on tank size, household size, and water usage. A 1,000-gallon tank serving a family of 4 should generally be pumped every 3 years. With approximately 6,473 septic systems in Crittenden County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Crittenden County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 100% of soils in Crittenden County are rated "Very Limited" for septic absorption fields, while only 0% are "Not Limited." This means many properties will require alternative systems such as mound systems, pressure distribution systems, or aerobic treatment units. A percolation test ($650-$1350) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Crittenden County?
A well-maintained septic system in Crittenden County typically lasts 25-30 years, though some components may need attention sooner. The concrete septic tank itself can last 40+ years, while the drainfield — the most critical and expensive component — usually lasts 15-25 years depending on soil conditions (Crittenden County has predominantly poorly drained soils). Regular pumping every 3-5 years and avoiding excess water usage are the two most effective ways to extend system life.

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Quick Facts

Population48,163
Est. Septic Homes6,473
Avg Pumping Cost$300
Drainage ClassPoorly drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $200-$400
Inspection: $200-$350
Repair: $550-$4,000
Installation: $4,550-$9,100

Data last updated: 2026-04-13